When is a Dental Implant Needed
Dr. Mark Tadrissi, DDS, is an endodontic technology specialist in Charlotte, NC, with extensive experience in general and restorative dentistry.
December 20, 2017Many patients ask – when is a dental implant needed? When you have a dental injury or infection, saving your natural tooth should always be your first choice. Even the most advanced implants or bridges cannot truly replace your natural tooth. For this reason, if you are experiencing dental pain or discomfort you should speak with a dentist or endodontist as soon as possible to discuss your options.
If your dentist recommends extracting your tooth, ask whether an endodontist can help save the tooth with root canal treatment. This procedure involves removing the injured pulp (soft inner tissue) of your tooth, then filling and sealing the space.
A dentist finishes the process by restoring your tooth with a crown or filling, enabling it to function as your natural teeth do, ensuring comfortable chewing and a natural appearance.
Endodontists can often save even the most severely injured teeth, so it pays to learn more about your treatment options. Discuss about when is a dental implant needed. Do everything possible to save your teeth before considering extraction – always the last resort!
If an endodontic procedure can’t save your tooth and it must be extracted, you should consider a dental implant that will enable you to bite and chew properly, keep healthy teeth from shifting, and help you maintain a natural appearance.
Dental Implants are a state-of-the-art replacement for missing teeth. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth — the crown — in place. The implant emulates the shape of the root and is usually made of titanium and other materials that are well-suited to the human body. The implant is surgically placed into the jaw and incorporates into the bone over time to become a stable base for crowns. Dental implants have been used for several decades by patients of all ages. They can replace a single tooth, several teeth or support partial or full dentures.
Carefully discuss your options for treatment with your dental team to ensure you pick the treatment that is best for your overall health.